Abstract: A method of detecting smoke or a fire involves the installation of properly produced cameras in the field. The cameras send recorded photos to a server. A computer downloads the photos from the server and uses attempts to automatically detect smoke with artificial intelligence software. Photos with a detected fire are sent to users which interface with a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as a desktop computer or a mobile phone, capable of executing a software application for verification. Verified smoke or fire threats signal alarms to the designated fire department in an effort to prevent fires from spreading and thus causing unnecessary damage to communities, lives, and ecosystems.